Alloa Youth Hub launched at FVC

A new Alloa Youth Hub facility was launched on Friday 6 November at Forth Valley College’s Alloa Campus.

The facility will offer CV writing advice, skills training, mental health support, housing advice, and careers guidance under one roof.

The Alloa Youth Hub will work with local partners, to deliver tailored support to 16 to 24 year-olds that reflects the needs of the local economy, helping to break down barriers to work and accelerate pathways into employment. It will also work with Skills Development Scotland (SDS), Clacks Works, Clackmannanshire Council’s local education and training providers, employers and other employability services.

The Hub supports young people to build confidence, develop skills and progress towards employment, education, training, apprenticeships or volunteering. Providers offer personalised support that recognises every young person's journey is different, helping them identify goals, overcome barriers and take positive steps towards their future. These partnerships help create pathways into learning, training, work experience and sustainable employment.

Brian Leishman MP, said: “It’s brilliant to see the Youth Hub be based in Forth Valley College Alloa Campus after the ongoing uncertainty over its future.  

“Our young people aged between 18 and 24 need support, it’s fantastic that they will be able to access that here in an environment where they can get access to connections whether that be through local employment or apprenticeships as well as health and wellbeing services and career advice.

“Improving local facilities shows we can deliver a real benefit to our young people and sends the message that Clackmannanshire is a place of ambition, opportunity and partnerships.”

Jen Ferguson, External Relations Leader for the Department of Work and Pensions North East Scotland, said: "We are delighted to be launching the Alloa Youth Hub in partnership with Forth Valley College, building on an already strong and successful relationship that has delivered positive outcomes for young people across Clackmannanshire.

“The Youth Hub represents an exciting opportunity to bring together support, education, employability and employer engagement in one accessible location, ensuring young people can access the help they need to take their next steps with confidence.

“We are particularly excited about the future opportunities this partnership can create, from training and skills development to Sector-based Work Academy Programmes, employer-led initiatives and pathways into sustainable employment. By working together, we can help young people gain the skills, experience and confidence they need to realise their potential.

“The Alloa Youth Hub will provide a positive stepping stone for local young people as they begin their journey towards rewarding careers and brighter futures. We look forward to seeing the impact this partnership will have across our communities and to continuing to develop even more opportunities for young people in the years ahead.

“Every young person deserves the opportunity to discover what they are capable of. Through the Alloa Youth Hub, we hope to inspire ambition, unlock potential and help young people take that first step towards a future they can be proud of."

Leanne Wilson, FVC’s Director of Curriculum for the Department of Care, Sport, Business and Communities, said: “Forth Valley College is proud to host the Alloa Youth Hub.  The real strength of this work is the partnership behind it. By bringing organisations together and focusing on what young people in Clackmannanshire need, we can give them better access to opportunities and support, helping them take positive steps towards their future

Zak Stark, FVC’s Head of Commercial Training and Delivery, said: “The Alloa Youth Hub provides a fantastic opportunity to engage directly with young people, helping them explore the different pathways available through education, training and employment. Hosting the Alloa Youth Hub at our Alloa Campus provides a one stop shop approach to young people across Clackmannanshire where working together we are committed to helping young people develop the skills, confidence and experience they need to progress into work and achieve their ambitions.”

After a few weeks of the journey the Youth Hub will be better placed to review the next best step for the customers and support towards their desired outcome. The aim is to provide a welcoming and supportive environment where young people can develop the skills, confidence and connections they need to achieve positive outcomes and realise their full potential.